1967 dime

2 min read 11-11-2024

1967 Dime: A Silver Treasure or Just Change?

The 1967 dime holds a special place in the hearts of coin collectors and history buffs alike. This seemingly ordinary coin marks a significant shift in U.S. coinage, signaling the end of an era for silver dimes. In this article, we'll delve into the history, significance, and value of the 1967 dime, exploring what makes it a potentially valuable find in your pocket change.

A Farewell to Silver

Before 1965, U.S. dimes were minted with 90% silver and 10% copper. However, the rising price of silver during the Vietnam War forced the government to reconsider its monetary policy. The Coinage Act of 1965 brought about a major change: the elimination of silver from the dime, quarter, and half-dollar. These coins would now be made of a cupro-nickel alloy, consisting of 75% copper and 25% nickel.

The 1967 dime, therefore, marked the final year of silver dimes being produced in the United States. This transition, though seemingly subtle, transformed the value proposition of these coins for collectors and investors.

Identifying a 1967 Silver Dime

Not all 1967 dimes are created equal. While most are made from the new cupro-nickel alloy, a small number of silver dimes were still produced in 1967. These "proof" coins were minted for collectors and are highly valuable, often fetching hundreds of dollars depending on their condition.

Here's how to identify a silver 1967 dime:

Look for the "S" mint mark: Silver 1967 dimes were minted only in San Francisco, so they will bear an "S" mint mark below the date.
Examine the coin's edge: Silver dimes have a reeded edge, while cupro-nickel dimes have a smooth edge.
Check the coin's weight: A silver dime weighs 2.5 grams, while a cupro-nickel dime weighs 2.268 grams.

The Value of a 1967 Dime

The value of a 1967 dime varies significantly depending on several factors:

Condition: A well-preserved 1967 dime in uncirculated condition can be quite valuable.
Mint Mark: A silver 1967 "S" dime is considered the most valuable, followed by proof coins.
Demand: The value of a 1967 dime is influenced by market demand.

To get a sense of the potential value of a 1967 dime, you can use online price guides like CoinTrackers or consult a professional coin dealer.

What to Do with a 1967 Dime

If you're fortunate enough to find a 1967 dime in your pocket change, there are a few options:

Keep it as a keepsake: The 1967 dime is a valuable piece of American history and can be a cherished heirloom.
Sell it to a coin dealer: If you have a silver or proof 1967 dime, a professional coin dealer can assess its value and make you an offer.
Hold onto it for potential investment: Silver prices can fluctuate, and holding onto a silver 1967 dime may offer potential future value.

Final Thoughts

The 1967 dime is a coin that encapsulates a significant moment in U.S. monetary history. While most 1967 dimes are made of cupro-nickel, a small number of silver dimes and proof coins exist, offering a potential windfall to savvy collectors and investors. So, the next time you rummage through your pocket change, take a moment to examine those seemingly ordinary dimes—you might just be holding a small piece of history!